Tidepool Sculpin

Oligocottus maculosus

The tidepool sculpin (Oligocottus maculosus) is a small, hardy fish reaching up to 9 cm. It has a mottled brown to greenish body that changes color to match its surroundings, with large pectoral fins and a broad, flattened head. Found along the Pacific coast from the Bering Sea to southern California, it inhabits intertidal tide pools, shallow rocky areas, and kelp zones at depths of 0 to 10 meters. This remarkable species demonstrates strong site fidelity, returning to its home tide pool even when displaced up to 100 meters away. It can survive brief periods out of water trapped in moist crevices during low tide. It feeds on small crustaceans, snails, and algae. Its exceptional camouflage and homing ability make it a fascinating subject for tide pool exploration and shore diving.